Team Member Q&A - Deb Shouse

Sigil Partners sits down with Deb Shouse —one of our Sr. Account Executives—to explore her journey into the staffing industry, her approach to building meaningful relationships, the valuable lessons she’s learned at Sigil Partners, and her vision for the future of recruiting. Deb shares insights into what drew her to the industry, her experiences over the past 18 months with us, and her advice for those just starting out in the field. 

Could you tell us a little bit about your early career start and path to recruiting?  How did you enter the industry? I was recruited in 2014 into the staffing industry which was new for me. My sales experience and relationship building led to a smooth transition!

How long have you been with Sigil Partners? - What motivated you to join? I have been with Sigil Partners close to 18 months now. I really like the smaller company feel where you can make a large impact. Being just a phone call away from leadership is a great advantage for my clients to get things done quickly when needed. I have also met some great new co-workers and have new friendship that I believe I will have for life. 

What have you learned at SP, and what have been some of your most significant accomplishments in recruiting recently? In this group, I’ve really seen firsthand how a truly supportive and cohesive team works. Often within staffing orgs there is competition—which can sometimes be beneficial—but I don’t know a single member at SP that wouldn’t drop what they’re doing to help another succeed. It’s a refreshing take to see folks focused on the org’s overall success knowing that they’ll be rewarded if they pay it forward.  I am also really proud of the reputation I have established with my clients; I received an amazing testimonial from a client that we have helped over the years and it shows what a true partnership looks like. 

What changes or innovations do you expect to see in Recruiting in the coming years? The use of AI is expanding every day in our industry—sales, recruiting, and admin processes. While technology offers great tools, it is best implemented in combination with real conversations and true connections. In other words: embrace AI and every other tool in your belt, but don’t reply completely on it. Don’t devalue yourself and what you can bring to the table in terms of relationship building and interpersonal value. 

You’ve been part of several teams in your career—what aspects of the company culture do you value most? Do you see this reflected at SP? Respect and honesty are most important to me and to be able work this way with clients just seals the deal for me. There’s no smoke and mirrors at Sigil—it feels good to sell with integrity. We have an amazing recruiting team and we will find what you need in both a candidates skill set and culturally for the client’s team. 

What do you like to do in your spare time? - Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work that you would like to share? I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy going to beach and riding the intercoastal waterway, the views are so beautiful! We go rafting with friends and make a day of it with a cookout after. I have also picked up reading now that both my boys are out of the house and I get some “me” time. 

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field? Trust your gut and don’t compromise your principles. Do not oversell an outcome…people are unpredictable so expect the unexpected and always ask questions—never assume! There is no harm in being honest and not knowing an answer—set honest expectations and then do your homework!